Nairobi, Kenya – Tragedy struck in central Kenya on Thursday night as a devastating fire swept through a primary school dormitory, claiming the lives of at least 17 students and leaving 13 others with serious injuries.
The blaze occurred at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in Nyeri county, approximately 170 kilometers north of Nairobi. The school, which caters to around 800 pupils aged 5-12, was quickly engulfed in flames, leaving students and staff struggling to evacuate.
Police spokeswoman Resila Onyango confirmed the death toll, warning that it may rise as survivors continue to receive treatment in nearby hospitals. “The bodies recovered at the scene were burnt beyond recognition,” Onyango told AFP.
President William Ruto described the news as “devastating” and vowed to take action against those responsible. “I instruct relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate this horrific incident. Those responsible will be held to account,” Ruto stated on social media platform X.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua emphasized the need for school administrators to adhere to safety guidelines recommended by the Ministry of Education. “We must ensure that our schools are safe and secure environments for our children to learn and grow,” Gachagua said.
The Kenya Red Cross reported that at least 11 injured children were taken to Nyeri Provincial General Hospital and are providing psychosocial support services to affected pupils, teachers, and families.
“This tragic incident has left our community shaken,” said Kenya Red Cross Secretary General, Dr. Asha Mohammed. “We urge everyone to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as they investigate the cause of the fire.”
The school’s administration has promised full cooperation with the investigation. “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and will do everything possible to support the affected families,” said the school’s principal, whose name has not been disclosed.
This tragedy marks the latest in a series of school fires in Kenya, which have raised concerns about safety measures and emergency preparedness.
Similar Incidents:
In 2001, a devastating fire at Kyanguli Secondary School in Machakos county killed 58 students, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols. An investigation revealed that the fire was caused by an electrical fault.
In 2016, nine students lost their lives in a fire at a girls’ high school in Nairobi’s Kibera neighborhood. The fire was attributed to arson.
In 2017, 10 students died in a school fire in Nairobi, prompting calls for increased security measures.
Other notable incidents include:
– 2012: Five students killed in a fire at a boarding school in Kisumu county
– 2015: Seven students injured in a fire at a school in Mombasa county
– 2019: Two students killed in a fire at a boarding school in Bungoma county
An investigation into the cause of the Hillside Endarasha Primary School fire is ongoing, with police and fire officials working to determine the origin of the blaze.
As the country mourns the loss of young lives, concerns are being raised about school safety measures and the need for improved emergency preparedness.
Education Cabinet Secretary, Ezekiel Machogu, has promised to take immediate action to address safety concerns in schools. “We will review our safety protocols and ensure that all schools comply with the necessary standards.”
Opposition leader, Raila Odinga, expressed condolences to the affected families and called for a comprehensive investigation.
The international community has joined Kenya in mourning the loss of life, with messages of condolence pouring in from diplomatic missions and global leaders.
The Kenyan government has announced plans to provide financial assistance to affected families. A national mourning period has been declared, and the school remains closed until further notice.
